The vessel later departed on its return voyage with 250 passengers on board.

The newly refurbished Port Rashid Passenger Terminal is equipped with up to date facilities to efficiently manage passenger arrivals and departures, including new luggage belts and departure and arrival gates.

The terminal also works closely with relevant authorities such as Dubai Police, General Directorate Dubai Residency and Foreign Affairs and Dubai Customs to smoothly handle the necessary inspections and other formalities.

Al Muallem said: "For 40 years, Port Rashid has played a central role in connecting Dubai to the region and the rest of the world. Since the transfer of all container vessel operations to Jebel Ali Port four years ago, we have focused on developing Port Rashid as a centre for passengers visiting Dubai.

"We have developed the largest cruise terminal in the region there, and now we are delighted to once more welcome regional ferry passengers to the Port Rashid Passenger Terminal in the very heart of Dubai."

Al Mannaei said: "Over the past 4 months, we have worked hard in cooperation with authorities to refurbish and upgrade the Passenger Terminal at Port Rashid.

"Today we restore Port Rashid's passenger route connections and bring further life to this maritime sector. The new facilities are designed to provide simplified services to passengers, making arrivals and departures quick and easy. We look forward to seeing more ferry services operating out of Port Rashid."

The resumption of the ferry services will complement DP World's ongoing plans to expand Port Rashid's capacity to cater for the growing demand of cruise tourism in the region.